Papagayo Mexican Restaurant & Cantina

FOOTHILLS. Family owned Mexican restaurants are a dime a dozen in Tucson, but a few of them stand out. Papagayo is one of them. Open for more than 30 years, the restaurant capitalizes on several generations' worth of handed-down recipes to provide authentic and tasty Sonora-style food. The plant-filled interior is cheerful and welcoming, with fairy lights and Mexican tile accents. In a nod to today's health-conscious eating habits, canola oil is used in place of lard, and there are several vegetarian options. Service is friendly and anticipatory, and the bar serves good margaritas and a number of Mexican beers.